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In a key step toward strengthening mental health support and policy reform, the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) recently engaged with Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) in Freetown.
The meeting focused on the urgent need to overhaul the country’s outdated mental health laws, particularly the historic ‘Lunacy Act’ of 1903, and replace it with a modern, comprehensive Mental Health Act.
During the discussion, both sides emphasized the importance of integrating mental health education and preventive strategies into school policies.
They highlighted schools as crucial venues for early intervention, advocating for mental health awareness and resilience-building programs aimed at primary and secondary students.
The goal is to foster a generation that is more informed, resilient, and better equipped to handle mental health challenges.
Participants underscored that legislative reform is vital for effective mental health programs and for addressing the growing mental health issues affecting Sierra Leonean society.
Both the Ministry and Africa CDC representatives acknowledged the numerous challenges surrounding mental health in the country, emphasizing that education policies must evolve to support this transformation.
Africa CDC’s commitment to tackling health challenges affecting vulnerable populations was also reaffirmed. The initiative aligns with broader regional discussions, including recent deliberations at the African Union summit, where Sierra Leone’s President highlighted the urgent need for health reforms.
The meeting also served as a platform for sharing successful models from other African nations, with a strong call for increased financial support to accelerate legislative reforms. The urgency of updating Sierra Leone’s mental health laws is clear, as addressing these issues is critical to reducing societal vulnerabilities and promoting a healthier future for all citizens.
